31 July 2014

Well, we are back at our home marina again. We left Lisse, and were meandering through Alphen to the southern environs of Amsterdam and further, when we realized that our house batteries were completely shot. We really only use them for the water pump, but there was the potential that the problem could impact the integrity of other parts of the system, so we returned to have them swapped out. In the process, we learned quite a lot about our electrical system, so it was a worthwhile use of time. We upgraded our batteries somewhat so now we can run our fridge for a day or two without shore power. We're planning to set out tomorrow AM to continue an abreviated version of our previous plans.

Here's what's been happening in the interim:

 

Our first stop after Lisse was our favorite free spot in Alphen, near the billiard pub. This year there was a sign there saying they'd installed shore power!

However, when we asked, we were told they'd installed the sign but never got around to the rest of it. We were moored "further" from the pub than usual as you can see.

Across the Rijn, there was a lovely example of Dutch priorities: there was a garage for the boat, but not the car.
 

The second night we were there, two boats that were traveling together pulled in either side of us. We were invited for coffee after dinner, and treated to a concert by one of the kids.

He was actually rather good, and brought back memories of our kids at that age, especially Adam.

Next day, we discovered the battery problems so it was back to Kemper's to see if they could fix them quickly – well, not so much. We didn't have anything else to do so we spent Sunday in Amsterdam, mostly just walking and enjoying the quirky neighborhoods.

Next day, it RAINED ! ! !

One of the worst two or three rainy days in the years we've been coming. We just hunkered down, and made ourselves cozy. Also made a custard tart from a give-away flyer at one of the grocery stores.

We were supposed to have the batteries swapped out yesterday, so we vacated the boat and took the bus to Leiden. Saw where they're going to install the new (100 year old) English organ in the Hoogelands Kerk – we sponsored a pipe to celebrate Adam & Amy's wedding. Had lunch along the Rijn canals with free WiFi,

 

and it was market day, so we had a nice look around. McDonalds is ubiquitous in Europe, but I must say if the rest are going to go the way of the Leiden McD, I can almost live with it.

 

Came back to learn that they hadn't gotten around to our batteries. Needed to do that today, OK, but then Carlos shows up this AM to tell us (me) to drive the boat over to the lift to make it easier, and by the way can I back it in please. I HATE TO BACK UP THIS BOAT ! ! ! but I did it wayway. All the way from the far end of the marina to the workshop and crane.

Backwards. I really don't like to do that but we'll call it a learning exprience, OK?

 

Anyway, tomorrow it's off to Alphen again and then around to Amsterdam south and probably Weesp. A lovely quiet mooring, and space and time to do all the work we just haven't bothered to do so far this year.

Best to all, and hope you are all healthy and happy. Tot ziens, y'all ---